PoliticsOpposition leaders stepped up criticism of the government over inflation, press freedom and alleged political interference. PTI and its allies said rising prices, media pressure and institutional overreach were deepening the country’s crisis.
NATIONALFour militants were killed in a security operation in Pasni, Gwadar, while two security personnel were martyred in the exchange of fire, officials said. In a separate incident in Duki, two security men were seriously injured in a landmine blast.
NATIONALChief Justice Aalia Neelum has initiated the process to fill 19 vacant posts at the Lahore High Court, where only 41 judges are serving against a sanctioned strength of 60. Several advocates and law officers have already been interviewed for elevation.
NATIONALAt least three people were killed and 11 others injured in separate shootings, a stabbing and an accident in Dera Murad Jamali, Notal, Tambo and Jhal Magsi. Police said investigations and search operations were under way.
NATIONALBalochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti said a free and responsible press is vital for democracy and pledged continued support for journalists. He announced measures related to training, welfare, housing and digital media policy.
BusinessThe Islamabad High Court has dismissed Hubco’s petition against an FBR show-cause notice, allowing tax proceedings to continue. The court said constitutional intervention was not warranted at this stage.
WorldJapanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said in Hanoi that Japan would play a more proactive role in promoting a ‘free and open Indo-Pacific’. China criticised the initiative, with Beijing accusing Tokyo of ‘stirring up confrontation between camps’.
WorldChina’s commerce ministry says Beijing will not comply with US sanctions on five Chinese firms accused of buying Iranian oil. The ministry called the measures unlawful and said they violate international law.
SportsPeshawar Zalmi and Hyderabad Kingsmen will meet in the PSL 11 final at Gaddafi Stadium after two of the season’s most notable campaigns. The title clash has also renewed focus on Pakistan cricket after a subdued start to the tournament.
NATIONALThe PMD has issued a GLOF alert for Gilgit-Baltistan and parts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa due to an incoming weather system. It has also warned of a heatwave in Karachi and several districts of Sindh.
PoliticsJUI-F Balochistan chief Maulana Abdul Wasay has warned of province-wide protests on May 6 if the Madaris Bill is not passed in the May 5 assembly session. He said the party’s protest would remain peaceful.
CLIMATE CHANGEThe KP Climate Change, Forests, Environment, and Wildlife Department has issued a public awareness message to protect the Tut Khoraka bird. Officials said hunting the bird is illegal and warned that it plays an important role in seed propagation and forest growth.
